Ah, sports cars—the ultimate thrill machines. They promise heart-racing speed, sleek designs, and that unmistakable exhaust growl that makes you feel alive. But, like any high-maintenance relationship, they can also leave you with a massive headache. From sky-high repair costs to a driving experience that doesn’t always live up to the hype, these 10 sports cars serve as a reminder that not everything that looks good is as fun as it seems.

1. Ferrari 360 Modena (1999-2005)

The Ferrari 360 Modena is undeniably stunning—sleek, fast, and a true Ferrari in spirit. But like that charming friend who always gets you into trouble, it comes with its own set of problems. The mid-2000s models are infamous for electrical quirks, and let’s not even get started on the sticky buttons—yes, the interior plastic becomes an absolute mess, turning your dream car into a frustrating experience.

On top of that, transmission problems and pricey parts mean you’ll be dipping into your savings more than you might’ve anticipated. It’s beautiful, but not for the faint of wallet.

2. Porsche 911 (996 – 1999-2004)

The Porsche 911 is a legendary name in the world of sports cars, but the 996 generation? Not so much. This version feels like the unwanted cousin at a family gathering—always around but never quite measuring up. It’s notorious for its “intermediate shaft bearing” failure, which can lead to catastrophic engine issues and an eye-watering $15,000 repair bill.

Throw in some subpar interior quality, and suddenly that entry-level Porsche doesn’t seem like such a great deal after all.

3. Chevrolet Corvette C4 (1984-1996)

The Corvette C4 tried to redefine American muscle, but it often missed the mark. While its performance was solid for the time, this car’s build quality can be hit or miss. Known for electrical gremlins, leaking t-tops (a real treat when it rains), and suspension issues that make it feel like you’re driving a boat, owning a C4 often feels more like constant repairs than a thrilling joyride.

No matter how much horsepower it has, you’ll be spending more time at the mechanic than you will on the open road.

4. Lotus Esprit (1980-2004)

The Lotus Esprit is a true masterpiece of design, with handling that’ll make you feel like you’re gliding through corners. But beneath that stunning exterior lies a long list of potential headaches. From fragile engine mounts to recurring electrical problems, this British beauty is more temperamental than your average diva.

The maintenance costs are sky-high, and repairing the turbocharged engine or suspension could easily wipe out your savings. Driving it is an absolute dream, but owning one? Not so much.

5. Maserati GranTurismo (2007-2019)

The Maserati GranTurismo—pure Italian elegance, but a money pit in disguise. While the engine is a symphony of power, the build quality leaves much to be desired. Known for frequent electrical issues, cracked windshields, and expensive maintenance, the GranTurismo often feels like more of a financial burden than a refined sports car.

If you’re flush with cash and love the sound of a V8, it might be worth it. But if you’re not ready for constant repairs, you might want to keep your distance.

6. Jaguar XK (1996-2006)

The Jaguar XK is a stunning British masterpiece, but it hides a darker truth under that polished exterior. While the supercharged V8 or smooth V6 engines offer great performance, they come with a side of engine cooling issues, electrical gremlins, and costly upkeep. The car’s reputation for reliability is, well, questionable.

You’ll spend more time fixing it than you will enjoying it, and the gorgeous interior will quickly lose its charm when the “check engine” light starts flashing for the fifth time in a month.

7. BMW M5 (E60 – 2005-2010)

The BMW M5 E60 is a performance beast with its 500-horsepower V10 engine and racecar-like handling. But it’s also a ticking time bomb. The V10’s high-revving nature makes for a thrilling ride, but it’s incredibly expensive to maintain, with parts that can fail at any moment, leading to astronomical repair costs.

And then there’s the SMG transmission—fun when it works, but a nightmare when it doesn’t. You’ll have a blast driving it, but you’d better have a bottomless bank account to keep it running.

8. Ford Mustang GT350 (2015-2019)

The Ford Mustang GT350 offers thrilling performance, with its 5.2-liter V8 and an exhaust note that’ll leave you weak in the knees. But even muscle cars have their flaws. Some owners have reported engine reliability issues, especially with the oil cooler, which can cause oil pressure drops.

Add some iffy interior materials and a stiff ride quality, and you’ll start to question if the performance is really worth all the trouble. It’s a fantastic track car, but maybe not the best daily driver.

9. Ferrari F430 (2004-2009)

The Ferrari F430 is fast, beautiful, and unmistakably Ferrari—but it’s not without its issues. The F1 transmission, known for its performance, is also notorious for its unreliable nature, leading to expensive failures that can cost you a small fortune.

The carbon fiber clutch wears down much quicker than you’d expect, and the suspension can be finicky. If you’re willing to endure more time at the mechanic’s than on the road, the F430 may still be a dream car, but be prepared for some headaches.

10. Nissan 350Z (2003-2009)

The Nissan 350Z is beloved for its affordability and driving enjoyment, but beneath the surface, it’s not without flaws. Common issues like cracked dashboards and premature clutch wear, especially in manual models, can quickly sour the experience.

While it’s fun to drive, its reputation for costly repairs and less-than-stellar reliability can easily take the joy out of ownership.